Under the direction of Dr. Eliseo "Cheo" Torres, the Student Affairs Fellowship Program was established in 1999 with the intent of encouraging employees within and out of the Division to learn more about the departments and programs housed in Student Affairs.

"Since its inception in 1999, the division has sponsored more than 100 fellows who have contributed much to UNM especially in the Division of Student Affairs and our students," Torres said. "Many of the fellows have received their doctorate degrees and are contributing their expertise in higher education both in the State of New Mexico and other places throughout the country."

The fellows serve a one-year commitment in which they take the lead on several projects under the supervision of Vice President Torres. One of their major responsibilities involves coordinating the annual New Mexico Association of Student Affairs Professionals Symposium. The symposium draws participants from not only New Mexico but surrounding states as well.

During their tenure, fellows are expected to work on their degree or pursue additional training in areas of interest to them. They are also expected to attend UNM Regents and other committee meetings in order to gain a better understanding of how a higher education institution functions.